The universal DH could help extend Turner’s playing career, but when he is done, many believe he has the makings of a great coach or manager.
If the universal DH is a rule whose time has come, Justin Turner is just glad it didn’t come sooner.
“I don’t think I’m standing right here today if there was a DH 10 years ago,” Turner said one afternoon in the Dodgers’ clubhouse. “I made my living as a utility infielder, pinch-hitting, coming in off the bench facing closers. I would say probably 90 percent of my decision to sign with the Dodgers over the Red Sox in ’14 – I don’t want to say 90 percent but a big part of the decision was the opportunity for bench players.
Turner’s road to the big leagues was not a smooth one. The former Mayfair High and Cal State Fullerton standout went through three organizations before signing with the Dodgers as a non-roster invitee in spring 2014 and was almost 30 years old when he finally became a fixture in a major-league lineup.
“I’m in a position where people ask me all the time, ‘How much longer do you want to play?’” Turner said. “I want to play as long as they let me.When his playing career does eventually end, Turner will have another decision to make – what next? His knowledge of the game and status as a team leader in L.A. make him a good candidate to go into coaching or even manage a team someday. He certainly could forge a career in broadcasting.
“I never got too far . I really live in the moment. I can appreciate Justin where he wants to focus on playing. Then when the time comes, it’ll happen.” “He’s a baseball guy. He’s just in it. He’s around it. So as far as that goes, he could do anything. I think manager would fit him well. I think he’d do that really well. He has the command of the clubhouse.I think he could do that if he wanted.”
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